Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
146. Deputy Erin McGreehan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will enact legislation to strengthen dog control measures in regard to the worrying of sheep; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35484/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraSheep worrying has a profound impact on farmers and rural communities. I fully recognise the gravity of this issue. I believe robust traceability measures are central to ensuring that dog owners can be held accountable where their animals are involved.
In February, my Department commenced a media awareness campaign urging dog owners to take due care and act responsibly in any instances where there may be a risk to livestock, particularly sheep, in the critical lambing season for the sheep farming community. Responsible dog ownership including effective control of dogs in a countryside setting is an important matter. I am personally invested in making a difference in this area. I look forward, along with my Department, to engaging proactively in terms of wide-ranging awareness campaigns across relevant platforms throughout 2026, on issues around responsible dog ownership, including sheep worrying.
Regarding the legislation in the area, a high-level Dog Control Stakeholder Group was established in 2024 to review the Control of Dogs Acts and the Dog Breeding Establishments Act. Its remit was and is to consider policy and legislative matters in relation to those Acts and consider any need for legislative change. The stakeholder group comprises members with a broad range of expertise including academics, veterinary surgeons, local authorities, farming interests, charities working in the field and animal welfare experts.
I am committed to reviewing all legislation relating to dogs and in this regard will be guided by the recommendations of the Dog Control Stakeholder Group. I expect the report of the Stakeholder Group to be submitted to me imminently and I will fully consider all of their recommendations, including any in relation to dog control legislation, which it can be anticipated will include reference to livestock worrying, particularly with respect to sheep.
